How to Apply

2017 Applications should be completed online. You will be prompted to create an account. Use an email address that you check often, as this is how we will communicate with you about the status of your application and will collect necessary authorizations and health information once you've been accepted.

You will be asked whether you want to purchase a protection plan. This protection plan is not through SOU and IS NOT REQUIRED. You may decline.

Once you select Young Artists Institute from the menu of camp options and accept or decline the protection plan you will be told you are registered. Once registered please follow the prompts to complete your online application.

A complete application includes: 1) a copy of your most recent report card (uploaded to the online application), 2) work samples* (uploaded to the online application), 3) an essay (completed in the online application), and 4) a recommendation completed by a recent teacher or school administrator (available here or in the online application). Your reference should mail their recommendation to the SOU Pre-College Youth Programs office.

APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BY MAY 12, 2017

START YOUR 2017 APPLICATION.

*For theater students, work sample consists of a resume or activities sheet outlining theater, dance and other performance-related experience.

What people are saying about the Young Artists Institute

"You changed my perspective on life!" - YAI Student

"I was given the artistic freedom needed to grow as both a human and an artist" - YAI Student

"It was clearly a seminal experience - and for that I'm very grateful" - YAI Parent

"Every one of my students who attended said it was the best experience they ever had - an amazing endorsement!" - High School staff member

Students who participate in the Young Artists Institute can expect:

To be inspired.

To learn to collaborate with other artists.

Greater access to their own creativity.

Increased skills and capacities as an artist.

To be supported and mentored by accomplished artists.

To develop friendships with other teens who care about the arts.

Increased confidence as artists who have something to say.

The Young Artists Institute believes in the transformative potential of the arts. We are committed to supporting young people to become the kind of thoughtful, creative, inspired learners and leaders so needed in this world.

Students arrive Friday evening for check in and orientation. During the next ten days we will offer in-depth instruction, special presentations, workshops, and featured guests. Outstanding professional artists will mentor students through in-depth instruction, and plenty of free studio/seminar/rehearsal time will be provided. Students will attend a play at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and examine common artistic themes across multiple disciplines. The Young Artists Institute concludes on Sunday morning with a culminating event that weaves together individual and joint work in a presentation for family, friends, and the public. Administrative and residential staff carefully supervise 12-person living groups. Students develop close friendships with fellow students from around the region while exploring their creativity and refining their personal artistic voice.